Ariba Mahmud
10/12/08
Math 7C
Day 21

Mathematical Reflections 1

In this investigation, you learned how to use a stretcher to enlarge figures. These questions will help you summarize what you have learned:


Notes:
  • The figure can only be enlarged if both variables are changed by the same factor.
  • Scale factor - the number you use to multiply corresponding lengths to stretch or shrink a similar figure.
  • The change in area between similar figures is the scale factor times itself or squared.
  • In order for 2 figures to be similar, the smaller figure's side lengths or perimeter multiplied by the scale factor will equal the perimeter of the bigger figure.


1) Suppose you used your two-band stretcher to enlarge the rectangle below.

aribam2.png
a. How would the side lengths of the enlarged rectangle compare to the side lengths of the original rectangle?

The side lengths of the enlarged rectangle are double the length of the original figure.

b. How would the perimeter of the enlarged rectangle compare to the perimeter of the original rectangle?
The perimeter of the enlarged rectangle is double the size of the perimeter of the original figure.

c. How would the area of the enlarged rectangle compare to the area of the original rectangle?
The area of the enlarged figure is quadruple the size of the area of the original rectangle.

2) How does the location of the anchor point affect the image drawn with a stretcher?


If the anchor point is close to the original figure, then the enlargement's size (area, side lengths, and perimeter) will be more similar to the original figure. If the anchor point is farther away from the original figure, then the enlargement's size (area, side lengths, and perimeter) will be less similar to the original figure.

Think about your answers to these questions, discuss your ideas with other students and your teacher, and then write a summary of your findings in your journal.

Summary:


The summary of this investigation is what happens when you enlarge a figure, what corresponds, and by how much is the enlargment bigger than the original figure.